Australians will enjoy a mix of replica Broadway blockbusters, fresh interpretations of classics and a sprinkle of locally written musicals in 2018. Independent theatre companies are serving up a some of the tastier productions.
On the eve of stepping back on stage in fishnets and heels for The Rocky Horror Show, Craig McLachlan (aka the ABC’s Dr Blake) channels both the doctors in his life with Coral Drouyn.
As the curtain rose on the musical adaptation of Muriel’s Wedding, David Spicer spoke to PJ Hogan, whose real life story inspired the movie, and the young actress - Maggie McKenna - playing a lead role for the first time.
It might be hard to believe, but many of the most cringeworthy scenes from the 1994 hit movie Muriel’s Wedding were based on real life.
PJ Hogan, the director and writer, can still vividly remember going to a family dinner in a restaurant when his father’s mistress turned up.
The 2018 Season at Theatre Works in St Kilda features four world premieres and two Australian premieres, including works by Australian writers Samara Hersch, Jane E Thompson and Stephen Sewell, sitting side by side with Robert Lepage and Oscar Wilde.
In its 39th year, Theatre Works will salute Melbourne’s new wave of creative talent, alongside seasoned veterans.
Blue Saint Productions has announced the full cast of their upcoming production of the Tony Award winning musical In The Heights at the Hayes Theatre Co. Conceived by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the composer behind the Hamilton phenomenon, this brand new, authentic production will run from 16 March 2018.
Adelaide Fringe has announced a total of 1223 events in its official 2018 program.
Around 6000 artists will present a broad range of works across genres including 338 comedy shows, 260 music events, 132 theatre productions, 128 cabaret shows, 98 children’s events, 73 visual arts and design exhibitions, 64 special events, 36 circus/physical theatre events, 33 dance shows, 26 interactive events, 22 magic shows and 13 film and digital events.
In 2018, Red Stitch Actors’ Theatre will deliver three Australian premieres, a renewal of a partnership with Midsumma featuring a play by Taylor Mac, and three Australian productions, including a world premiere with original songs by Mark Seymour
In 2018, Riverside Theatres will celebrate 30 years of sharing stories on the stage and screen. To coincide with this significant year, Riverside has compiled a diverse anniversary program to reflect the broad interests of its audiences and the community.
In the New Year, Riverside will present two international productions including the thoughtful solo storytelling show, Taha, based on the life of Palestine poet Taha Muhammad Ali, and the family production direct from London, Wilde Creatures, inspired by Oscar Wilde’s fairy tales.
Following the announcement of Tony Sheldon as “Bernadette”, David Harris as “Tick” and Euan Doidge as “Felicia”, the full cast of Australia’s most successful homegrown musical Priscilla Queen of the Desert has been confirmed.
A cast of Australian performers will steer the iconic musical back home for its 10th anniversary celebration tour beginning on Sunday 21 January 2018 at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre, before hitting the road for Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane.
